Kristiania Bohemians I 1895

Curator: Munch's "Kristiania Bohemians I" presents a glimpse into the late 19th-century artistic circles. What strikes you first? Editor: The smoky haze and the intense expressions. There’s a real feeling of restless energy and perhaps a hint of disillusionment hanging in the air. Curator: Indeed, etching became a crucial medium for conveying these moods, aligning with the radical social critiques of the bohemians. Their gatherings were spaces to challenge societal norms through art and political discussions. Editor: It really captures a sense of marginalized identities finding a space to question the status quo. There's a vulnerability in their faces, a quiet rebellion against the expected. Curator: The print reflects Munch's broader artistic project, questioning established values and portraying the complexities of modern life, making it relevant even today. Editor: Absolutely. Seeing this reminds us how vital artistic communities are for nurturing dissent and demanding change.